HBO's new series 'Lanterns,' premiering Sunday, August 16, reimagines the Green Lantern narrative by focusing on the dynamic between Hal Jordan, played by Kyle Chandler, and John Stewart, portrayed by Aaron Pierre. The series opens in 1996 with a young John Stewart witnessing a televised interview with the first Earth-born Green Lantern, Hal Jordan. This early scene establishes Jordan's confident persona and sets the stage for Stewart's own path, marked by rigorous, almost severe, training.
The narrative then jumps to a future where an older, more jaded Hal Jordan is tasked with training John Stewart as his successor. However, Jordan is reluctant to relinquish the Green Lantern mantle. Their dynamic takes an unexpected turn when their training is interrupted by a murder mystery that uncovers secret aliens and a paramilitary operation in the small town of Rushville, Nebraska.
Executive produced by showrunner Chris Mundy, Damon Lindelof, and writer Tom King, 'Lanterns' draws inspiration from the gritty atmosphere of 'True Detective Season 1.' The series pairs a seasoned, world-weary detective with a younger partner to investigate a complex case that leads to profound ethical dilemmas and unsettling discoveries. The success of this premise hinges on the chemistry between Chandler and Pierre.
Kyle Chandler brings his signature charisma to Hal Jordan, portraying him as an arrogant yet likable figure. Aaron Pierre imbues John Stewart with a cool demeanor, transforming the character from a potential stereotype into a complex individual grappling with inner turmoil. Their on-screen interactions are central to the series' appeal.
The series also explores the romantic entanglements of the two protagonists. Hal Jordan finds himself drawn to Kerry Kane, the local sheriff played by Kelly Macdonald, while John Stewart develops a relationship with Zoe, a woman he meets at a local bar, portrayed by Poorna Jagannathan. These relationships add further layers to the characters' journeys.
'Lanterns' deviates from traditional superhero storytelling by subverting audience expectations, a move deliberately designed by its creators to keep viewers engaged. The series is crafted as a drama for adults, featuring mature performances and complex character relationships, and does not require prior knowledge of the Green Lantern comics to be appreciated. The Green Lantern ring serves as a powerful symbol, representing Hal Jordan's identity and John Stewart's sense of purpose, driving the emotional core of the series.
'Lanterns' is positioned as a significant new series for HBO and a notable release from DC Studios, exploring themes of legacy, community, and the nature of fear in an engaging and entertaining package. The series premieres Sunday, August 16, at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max.